10 Korean Phrases to Make You Sound Like A Local

Koreans can be proud of their own culture. Sure many are learning English, and more and more are conversant in it, but if you could whip out a few Korean phrases there and then when needed, why not right?

Plenty of practical benefits come with knowing the basics of the local language. Plus, you’ll find that this is a great way to enhance your travel experience. Ready to impress the locals? Whip out your notebook and start taking notes. Who knows you might even get to chat with the handsome men and ladies!

The Basics:

1. Kam sa ham nida

There are many ways of saying ‘thank you’ in Korean but the safest and most common term is ‘Kamsahamnida’. Again, slightly nodding while saying this conveys your respect for the recipient.

Beautiful People!

8. Jal Seng Gyut Sso yo

9. Nam Ja Chingu It Sso yo?

I know it, you are the kind the shoot straight. So next time when you see a beautiful Korean girl, walk up to her and ask straight ‘Nam Ja Chingu It Sso Yo’? which means - do you have a boyfriend? For the ladies, if you meant to ask that handsome oppa about girlfriend, that swap the ‘Nam’ to ‘Yaw‘.

10. Yeongeo hashil jul ahseyo?

Sometimes, we could try our best to speak Korean, but when all else fails, it’s a good idea to fall back to the international language – English. If you do need to ask if the person speaks English, this is the phrase!